"We are incredibly grateful and humbled by this outpouring of support for those who are suffering as a result of Superstorm Sandy," said Peggy Dyer, chief marketing officer for the American Red Cross, in a statement. "Our preliminary results of nearly $23 million raised are an extraordinary example of how the American people pull together in times of disaster. Their generous donations will go directly to those in need, and we urge the public to continue to give. We also thank the dedicated and talented team at NBCUniversal for the millions of people they have helped through this telethon."